Crude Oil Steady, Investors Eye OPEC, U.S. Employment Releases

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Published: Dec 6, 2019, 11:43 UTC

After sharp gains earlier in the week, crude prices have leveled off. We could see some movement in the North American session, with the release of U.S. employment data at 15:30 GMT.

Crude Oil Steady, Investors Eye OPEC, U.S. Employment Releases

After sharp gains in mid-week, crude oil prices are flat for a second straight day. In the North American session, West Texas Intermediate crude oil futures are trading at $58.35, up $0.02 or 0.12%. Brent crude oil futures are trading at $63.38, up $0.12 or 0.19%. It’s a busy day on the fundamentals front, highlighted by November non-farm payrolls.

Strong U.S. Job Data Could Boost Crude

The U.S. releases key employment indicators later on Friday. Analysts are expecting strong numbers, which could reignite a crude rally. Nonfarm payrolls are projected to increase sharply to 181 thousand, compared to 128 thousand in the previous release. Wage growth is expected to rise from 0.2% to 0.3%. On the consumer front, UoM Consumer Sentiment index is also expected to climb to 97.0, up from 95.7 pts.

In the span of one week, investors have been treated to the strongest swings in crude prices since mid-September. Crude plunged 4.8% on November 29, surprising the markets which had expected a sleepy Friday after Thanksgiving. This decline marked the sharpest 1-day drop since mid-September, when crude took investors on a roller-coaster ride after an attack on Saudi oil terminals. Crude proceeded to recover these losses this week, after climbing 3.8% on Wednesday. This move was caused by an unexpectedly strong drawdown in crude inventories, as well as speculation that OPEC members may cut production in order to reduce a glut of oil on world markets.

Technical Analysis

With WTI/USD showing little movement, there is no change in the technical breakdown. The pair continues to test resistance at 58.50. Above, we find resistance at 59.25. On the downside, 57.50 is providing support. This is followed by the 200-EMA at 57.03 and the 50-EMA at 56.52. The next support level is at 56.50.

About the Author

Kenny Fisherauthor

Kenny is an experienced market analyst, with a focus on fundamental analysis. Kenny has over 15 years of experience across a broad range of markets and assets –forex, indices and commodities.